| 698 army recruits graduate in Magunje Tuesday, August 14, 2007 Chinhoyi Bureau THE Defence Forces’ commitment to the success of the land reform programme and efforts to turn around the economy provide a beacon of hope for Zimbabweans in the face of numerous challenges facing the country, Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant General Phillip Valerio Sibanda has said. "As soldiers, we should not mourn over a passing phase in the history of our country. Our resolute commitment to the success of the land reform programme and the turning around of our economy will see us remaining a beacon of hope among our people," he said. He said the army should give maximum support to Government programmes to resuscitate the economy. Lt Gen Sibanda was addressing 698 recruits at a pass out parade at Magunje Military Training School last Friday. The army and Government were working to address problems facing the force, he said. "Your passing out today comes at a time when the country is facing numerous challenges, as a result of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe and the regime change agenda of the British and the Americans who are being assisted by some unpatriotic Zimbabweans." The army, he said, was not spared by the challenges. Lt Gen Sibanda said a short period of suffering could not be equated to a lifetime of bondage and urged the new recruits to help improve the lives of the communities they operate in. Lt Gen Sibanda said in cases of indiscipline, the army justice system was prepared to deal with errant soldiers. The 698 were part on an initial intake of 758 prospective recruits who began training in February. The recruits underwent foot and arms drills, map reading and navigation, civic military education, individual and team tactic manoeuvres and weapons training among other things. Mashonaland West Governor and Resident Minister Cde Nelson Samkange, 2 Brigade Commander Brigadier General Douglas Nyikayaramba and other senior army officers attended the pass out parade. |
ZDF News
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